‘200 virus cases linked to outbreak after teen disco at entertainment venue’

THE ripple effect from a single Covid-19 outbreak has been highlighted as the Public Health Agency encourages young people to get vaccinated.

A newly-released PHA map shows the spread of cases across different local government districts from a single outbreak at an entertainment event earlier this month.

The PHA has not named the event they believe the cases are linked to. However, it is understood to be the Teenelk event at The Elk nightclub outside Toomebridge, Co Antrim.

Images shared online of the Teenelk event on Friday, November 5 appear to show a large crowd at the site.

The venue has since had its entertainment licence suspended.

The event has now been linked to more than 200 cases, spreading far beyond its original source. The PHA originally said that “over 800 individuals have been identified as close contacts and will be required to self-isolate and get a PCR test depending on their vaccination status”. The Elk said it is “assisting Mid Ulster District Council with its enquiries”. The council is investigating the event. A spokesperson said this week: “The licence remains suspended and a prohibition notice remains in force. Investigations are continuing and it would, therefore, be inappropriate for the council to comment further at this time.”

The data was released ahead of vaccination clinics in Northern Ireland this weekend for 12 to 17-year-olds. Dr Brid Farrell, deputy director of Public Health at the PHA, said: “We would really encourage young people to come forward for their vaccination.”

VENUE The Elk near Toomebridge